Alec Baldwin Faces Criminal Charges in Fatal Shooting on Set of ‘Rust’
Santa Fe, NM – Prosecutors are preparing to file a criminal case against actor Alec Baldwin in connection with the tragic shooting that took place on the set of the movie Rust last year. Baldwin, who was also a producer of the Western film, is accused of shooting and killing cinematographer Halyna Hutchins.
The incident occurred on a ranch outside Santa Fe during a rehearsal in October 2021. Baldwin was holding a prop gun that unexpectedly discharged, striking Hutchins and injuring director Joel Souza. The bullet was fired directly at the camera, resulting in the fatal shooting of Hutchins.
Special prosecutors had previously dismissed involuntary manslaughter charges against Baldwin, but new developments have led to a reconsideration. Recently obtained analysis of the gun used in the shooting has prompted prosecutors to reassess their case.
Baldwin has repeatedly maintained his innocence, stating that he should not be held responsible for the accident. He claims to remember pulling back the hammer of the gun, but not intentionally pulling the trigger.
The trial for the film’s armorer, Hannah Gutierrez Reed, is set to begin in February. Gutierrez Reed is facing charges of involuntary manslaughter and evidence tampering. Additionally, David Halls, the film’s assistant director and safety coordinator, previously pleaded no contest to unsafe handling of a firearm.
The legal proceedings surrounding the tragic incident on the set of Rust have been marked by turmoil. Several special prosecutors and the district attorney have resigned from the case, leading to delays and complications. Furthermore, Hutchins’ widower recently dropped a wrongful death lawsuit.
As the case moves forward, the film industry and the public await the outcome of the criminal charges against Baldwin. The incident has drawn attention to the issue of safety on film sets and has prompted calls for stricter regulations to prevent similar accidents in the future.
The trial is expected to shed further light on the events leading up to the shooting, offering closure and justice for the victims and their families.
